We live in a world that is constantly changing and moving. We are bombarded with ideas from every direction. With all the pressure from family, peers, work, school, church, society and media it's easy to become overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and lost.

No one feels this pressure more than the youth of the world. Teenagers are in the most vulnerable and critical stage of life in which they are discovering their identity. Many feel obligated to conform to their peers; others want to rebel against society. Unfortunately, the stress and tension that teenagers undergo lead to a variety of serious concerns.

Today, many young men and women struggle as they face depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and low self-esteem. Teens are easily enticed by and experiment with drugs, alcohol, and pornography. Young girls, in particular, suffer from eating disorders, anorexia, and bulimia. A growing number of teens are confronted with self-harm and suicidal thoughts. It's as if life as a teenager isn't hard enough without these challenges.

Thankfully, help exists. Residential treatment programs for teens are designed to help youth every hour of every day. Through an extended stay in a facility, teens are exposed to an environment which emulates a healthy and happy home.

Every admitted teenager works with certified and licensed mental health therapists. Upon being accepted, an individualized treatment plan is created for every member. During their stay, troubled teens work to overcome their unique challenges through individual, group and family counseling. Medication plans are also put in place when deemed necessary.

Residents attend an accredited school that is integrated into the treatment program. Weekly nondenominational church services are also available. The overall design of a residential treatment program is intended to give youth the same life opportunities they would find outside the program with the addition of constant help from professional counselors.

Every adolescent who comes away from these programs will have been given the knowledge and skills they need to cope with their particular stresses and challenges throughout their life. Youth not only learn coping mechanisms but develop strong senses of morals and spiritual well-being, leading to an all-encompassing recovery.

If other treatments are not giving desired results, residential treatment may be the next step. Talking with an admissions agent will help determine if a residential program is right for a teenager. Of course, every treatment has a cost. Because of the serious threats presented by these challenges, some insurance companies will cover in part the costs of residential treatment.

Regardless of the trials a teen faces, there is help. Overcoming substance and behavioral addictions, anxiety, and eating and mental health disorders are all possible through residential treatment. Every teen deserves the opportunity to overcome their challenges and live up to their potential.